To,
Shri Manoj Sinha,
Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor,
Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir
Subject: Urgent Need to Remove Russian Poplar Trees and Replace Them with Suitable Alternatives
Respected Sir,
I am writing to bring to your urgent attention the serious health and environmental concerns caused by the widespread presence of Russian poplar trees (Populus deltoides) in Jammu & Kashmir. Despite multiple High Court directives and scientific studies, these trees continue to pose a significant threat, particularly to children, elderly individuals and those suffering from respiratory ailments.
Russian poplars were introduced in Kashmir in the 1980s under the Social Forestry Project due to their rapid growth and economic benefits for farmers. However, over time, the pollen shed by these trees has been linked to severe allergic reactions, respiratory infections and chest diseases, as noted by medical professionals. Many residents have reported experiencing heightened allergic symptoms, including breathing difficulties and eye infections, particularly in the months of April to June when the pollen disperses.
Recognizing this issue, the Jammu and Kashmir High Court issued an order in 2015 directing the large-scale felling of Russian poplars across the valley. The court observed that the pollen from these trees adversely affects public health and contributes to a surge in respiratory diseases. In response, authorities initiated the removal of these trees, yet a significant number still remain, especially in government nurseries and densely populated areas. Reports indicate that many local administrations have not fully implemented the court’s directives, leaving the public exposed to these health hazards.
Additionally, a committee formed in 2020 to examine the impact of Russian poplars noted that while there is no conclusive scientific evidence proving that female poplar pollen alone is responsible for allergies, the fluffy cotton-like substance produced by these trees creates a significant nuisance in urban areas, particularly near hospitals, schools and marketplaces. The committee recommended phasing out female poplars in such areas and discouraging their planting altogether.
While some studies, including one conducted by SKIMS Soura, have suggested that house dust mites and grass pollens are major contributors to allergies in Kashmir, it cannot be ignored that areas with a high concentration of Russian poplars report a noticeable spike in allergic reactions during the pollen season. This raises a strong case for precautionary removal, especially in densely populated zones.
In light of these concerns, I request the following immediate measures be taken:
1. Complete Implementation of High Court Orders: Authorities must ensure that all pending directives regarding the removal of Russian poplars, especially in urban and residential areas, are fully executed without further delay.
2. Phased Removal in Rural Areas: Given the economic reliance of farmers on these trees, a phased approach should be adopted, gradually replacing them with alternative tree species that do not pose similar health risks.
3. Alternative Afforestation Plans: Instead of Russian poplars, native and non-allergenic tree species such as chinar (Platanus orientalis), deodar (Cedrus deodara), and various fruit-bearing trees like walnut and almond should be promoted under reforestation and afforestation programs.
4. Ban on Further Cultivation: The plantation of female Russian poplars in private nurseries should be strictly prohibited and the government should procure and replace existing nursery stocks with safer alternatives.
5. Public Awareness and Scientific Studies: More comprehensive scientific studies should be conducted to assess the exact role of Russian poplar pollen in respiratory diseases and public awareness campaigns should be launched to educate citizens about effective allergy prevention measures.
Sir, the health and well-being of the people of Jammu & Kashmir must be the utmost priority. The persistence of Russian poplars despite clear evidence of their harmful effects is a matter of grave concern. I urge your esteemed office to take decisive action in implementing a structured plan to eliminate these trees and replace them with environmentally sustainable and health-friendly alternatives.
Your prompt intervention in this matter will go a long way in ensuring a safer and healthier environment for the people of Jammu & Kashmir.
With sincere regards,
Dr. Rizwan Rumi
Can be reached at rizwanroomi2012@gmail.com
Srinagar, 15th Feb 2025.